FIFA Initiates Disciplinary Proceedings Against Spanish Football Federation President Luis Rubiales
FIFA, the international governing body for football, has officially opened disciplinary proceedings against Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish football federation, following allegations of his inappropriate behavior towards a star player of Spain’s winning World Cup team. Rubiales, who kissed the player without her consent, is now facing mounting pressure from women’s soccer organizations across Spain.
The union representing Spain’s women soccer players as well as the Association of Professional Soccer Players (FUTPRO) have strongly condemned Rubiales’ actions and are demanding appropriate punishment be imposed. Additionally, they are calling for measures to be implemented to safeguard players from any unacceptable behavior in the future.
Amnesty International has also voiced its support for the player, backing her complaints and urging the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) to take immediate action to protect her. The women’s soccer league in Spain, Liga F, has gone a step further by filing an official complaint with the Spanish High Council of Sport (CSD) in hopes of ensuring that Rubiales faces consequences for his actions.
Although Rubiales has apologized for his behavior, his apology has been deemed insufficient by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sรกnchez, who has joined the chorus of voices criticizing Rubiales.
The RFEF is expected to address the incident during an extraordinary general assembly. However, if the federation fails to take appropriate action, CSD President Victor Francos has made it clear that he will step in to ensure justice is served.
This incident further exacerbates the existing unrest between Spain’s players, coach Jorge Vilda, and the football federation. Earlier, 15 members of the senior women’s squad publicly announced their refusal to play until significant changes are made to the coaching staff. The incident involving Rubiales only intensifies the ongoing tensions within the team.
As the disciplinary proceedings against Rubiales unfold, it remains to be seen how the RFEF will respond and whether they will take the necessary steps to address and rectify the situation. The eyes of the football world will undoubtedly be fixed on the outcome, as efforts to ensure the well-being and respect for all players continue to take precedence in the sport.
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